The International Day of Action For Rivers is celebrated on 14 March annually to sensitize people on the importance of rivers.
The day brings people across the world together to talk about and save rivers by addressing issues related to river management, river pollution, and river conservation among other issues to unite them in the same effort.
The theme of this year is “Rights of Rivers” which promotes river recognition as a national treasure. It also involves the legal ability to stop rivers from being used as sewage or garbage disposal areas.
This year marks the 26th anniversary since the celebration began. The purpose of the day is to share knowledge about how rivers support our way of life.
It also emphasizes freshwater ecosystems as a source of clean water for agriculture and drinking, as well as their restoration and maintenance.
The celebration of this day dates back to March 1997 when the First World Conference of Persons affected by dams in Brazil happened.
The celebration was decided on due to the continuous destruction of dams. Earlier, the day was called World Day against Dams for Rivers, water, and life.
The major objectives of celebrating this day are to unify opposition to harmful water development projects, recover the health of watersheds, and call for the equitable and sustainable management of rivers.
During this day, environment enthusiasts conduct workshops, seminars, and activities to celebrate this day raise awareness, and spread the message.
As an individual you can also celebrate the day by joining the movement by for example creating awareness in your locality. You can also educate others on the importance of rivers.
BY MARGARET MUGO